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Cheeks Will Remain At Charlotte

By BRETT McMURPHY

Published: May 12, 2007

TAMPA - Charlotte men's basketball assistant Chris Cheeks turned down an offer to become an assistant at the University of South Florida and will remain at Charlotte.

"I understood why he looked at the USF situation," Charlotte coach Bobby Lutz said. "He had my support either way, but this allows us to have some continuity. We have a very good staff and this is the first year we haven't lost an assistant."

Cheeks, who helped Charlotte land the nation's 13th best recruiting class this year, was among five candidates to interview with USF coach Stan Heath for two openings. Former Kentucky assistant Reggie Hanson accepted a position at USF Thursday. The remaining three – East Carolina assistant Chris Ferguson, Georgia State assistant Chad Dollar and Chipola College coach Greg Heiar – all said they would remain at their respective schools.

"I owe a lot to Stan Heath for giving me this opportunity," Hanson said. "The school has a lot of potential and growth from a basketball standpoint. Being in the Big East enhances the notoriety and helps in recruiting."

Reporter Brett McMurphy can be reached at (813) 259-7928 or bmcmurphy@tampatrib.com